Friday, April 29, 2011

Mount Fuji at the Central Region of Honshu

Mount Fuji
Main View of Mount Fuji, Truly Amazing
Photo by: emrank, Creative Commons
Mount Fuji, which is known as Japan’s highest mountain stands at a height of over 12,388 ft (3,766 m) at the central area of Honshu, Japan. Fuji, Japan’s tallest mountain is considered to be one of the “Three Holy Mountains” along with Tate and Haku. Mount Fuji also serves as a border between Shizuoka and Yamanashi. It is in the shape of a cone which is mostly portrayed in pictures; Mount Fuji is a great tourist landmark where adventurous sport like climbing most often takes place.
Climate
The climate is extremely cold as the surface of the mount is covered with snow for most of the months during the calendar year. The coolest temperature here was -38.0 °C (36.4 °F) and the hottest temperature was 17.8 °C (64.0 °F). From Yokohama, Tokyo, this place is visible during summer. The name Fuji-san is often referred as Fujiyama but it proved wrong in Japanese, later it became popular as Fuji.
Volcanic Activity
Volcanic activity has been discovered by scientists at four stages at Mount Fuji. The starting stage includes Sen-Komitake which contains Aden site which was found deep inside the mountain. The next stage is followed by Komitake Fuji, which was formed in the ancient times. The next stage is followed by Old Fuji which stood over Komitake,the present Fuji is said to be the top of all which was formed 10,000 years back. The last time this volcano erupted was recorded on December 16, 1707 and lasted unto January 1, 1708, this is also known as “The Hōei Eruption of Mount Fuji”. During that time, burned pieces of coal and ashes came out like rain. Ever since 1708, no eruption signs has been discovered and today, this mountain has a less risk of volcano’s eruption.
History
Mount Fuji is thought to be discovered by a monk in 663 AD. Considering the place as sacred; women were not allowed on the summit until the Meiji Era (1868-1912). In September 1860, Sir Rutherford Alcock was the first person to climb the mountain; it took eight hours to climb up to the top, three hours to come down. Also, Lady Fanny Parkes was the first woman to climb the mountain in 1867. This place is also known to be home for warrior’s culture where the samurai used the place as their training area. From 2006, the military camps of Japan and United States are operated from this place.
Climbing Mt. Fuji
Climbing Mount Fiji is an adventurous sport and it starts from July 1st to August 27th. The rising of the sun can be seen from this place and more people climb the mountain during the night in order to see the sun rising. Every year, over 200,000 people are expected to climb the mountains, out of that, 30% of the people are from the western countries. Also, there has been a paragliding from Subashiri and Hoeizan.  There is a forest named Aokigahara, which is located at the bottom of the mountain. This forest is known to be the suicide spot with an average of 30 suicides every year.

Pictures & Photos










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niagara waterfall

Collectively they are called "Niagara Falls"
Categorized by these three names:
American Falls  (between Prospect Point and Luna Island) far left
Bridal Veil Falls (between Luna Island and Goat Island) mid left
Canadian/Horseshoe Falls (between Goat Island and Table Rock) right 
American Falls & Bridal Veil Falls
 photo credit: Al Melhinch
length of brink:  1060 feet
height:  176 feet  (due to rocks at the base actual fall is 70 feet)
volume of water: 150,000 U.S. Gallons per second
Actual amount varies, there are two hydroelectric plants which draw water into their
reservoirs prior to the Falls. Their intake greatly affects the volume of water flowing over
the falls. The amount of water being siphoned away depends on  two variables. The time
of year, and the time of the day.  Flow is greatest in the daytime during peak tourist
season (June, July, and August). In the event of an emergency  the flow can be
somewhat reduced  by the hydroelectric companies increasing their intake.
The Bridal Veil Falls is named for its appearance. It is located next to the American falls,
separated by a small piece of land called Luna Island.

Canadian "Horseshoe" Falls

length of brink: 2600 feet
height: 167 feet
volume of water: 600,000 U.S. gallons per second
Interesting fact: According to the U.S.G.S. (United States Geological Survey) of Niagara
Falls, it appears that almost 1/3 of the Canadian Falls lies within US Territory.
 
A Brief History of the Falls
Information below graciously provided courtesy of  Niagara ParksIce Age History of the Niagara River and Whirlpool Rapids
The Niagara River, as is the entire Great Lakes Basin of which the river is an integral part, is a legacy of the last Ice Age. 18,000 years ago southern Ontario was covered by ice sheets 2-3 kilometers thick. As they advanced southward the ice sheets gouged out the basins of the Great Lakes. Then as they melted northward for the last time they released vast quantities of meltwater into these basins. Our water is "fossil water"; less than one percent of it is renewable on an annual basis, the rest leftover from the ice sheets.
The Niagara Peninsula became free of the ice about 12,500 years ago. As the ice retreated northward, its meltwaters began to flow down through what became Lake Erie, the Niagara River and Lake Ontario, down to the St. Lawrence River, and, finally, down to the sea. There were originally 5 spillways from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. Eventually these were reduced to one, the original Niagara Falls, at Queenston-Lewiston. From here the Falls began its steady erosion through the bedrock.
However, about 10,500 years ago, through an interplay of geological effects including alternating retreats and re-advances of the ice, and rebounding of the land when released from the intense pressure of the ice (isostatic rebound), this process was interrupted. The glacial meltwaters were rerouted through northern Ontario, bypassing the southern route. For the next 5,000 years Lake Erie remained only half the size of today, the Niagara River was reduced to about 10% of its current flow, and a much-reduced Falls stalled in the area of the Niagara Glen.
About 5,500 years ago the meltwaters were once again routed through southern Ontario, restoring the river and Falls to their full power. Then the Falls reached the Whirlpool.
It was a brief and violent encounter, a geological moment lasting only weeks, maybe even only days. In this moment the Falls of the youthful Niagara River intersected an old riverbed, one that had been buried and sealed during the last Ice Age. The Falls turned into this buried gorge, tore out the glacial debris that filled it, and scoured the old river bottom clean. It was probably not a falls at all now but a huge, churning rapids. When it was all over it left behind a 90-degree turn in the river we know today as the Whirlpool, and North America's largest series of standing waves we know today as the Whirlpool Rapids.
The Falls then re-established at about the area of the Whirlpool Rapids Bridge upriver to our right, and resumed carving its way through solid rock to its present location.
 
Straddling the Canadian-United States International Border and both in the Province of Ontario 
and the State of New York, Niagara Falls attracts some 12 Million tourists to her majestic 
awesome beauty each year.
The Niagara is a fairly young river, only 12,000 years old!, a microsecond in geological time. The
Niagara Escarpment, which was created by erosion is much older. The glaciers pressed down on 
the land during the last ice age and laid down layers of sediment, then the slow process of erosion
of ice and water ate at the surface of the escarpment
.
The mighty river plunges over a cliff of dolostone and shale. Niagara Falls is the second largest 
falls on the globe next to Victoria Falls in southern Africa.
One fifth of all the fresh water in the world lies in the four Upper Great Lakes-Michigan, Huron,
Superior and Erie. All the outflow empties into the Niagara river and eventually cascades over 
the falls.

At the bottom of the falls, the water travels 15 miles over many gorges until it reaches the fifth
Great Lake-Ontario. The land between the lakes does not slope at an even grade, but forms a 
spectacular drop approximately the same height as a 20 story building and this is known as the 
"Niagara Escarpment" Two billion years ago it was buried under a blanket of ice.
As the years passed, the process of erosion took place, (and still does) five distinct 'gorges' were
formed-Lewiston Brange Gorge, Old Narrow Gorge, Upper & Lower Great Gorges and the 
Whirlpool Narrow Gorge.
Approximately 500 years ago the river encountered an obstacle that caused it to 'split into two 
channels', thus Goat Island was formed named after John Stedman whose goat herds froze to
death in the winter of 1780). This was the original sediment left from a vanished Lake Tonawanda 
(an Indian name).
On the eastern part of the island, the American Falls took shape, the Horseshoe Falls, is on the 
 western side, where the river angles some 90 degrees.

The water flow on the American side of the falls is much less in strength because of Goat Island, 
whereas Horseshoe Falls has no obstruction to divert it.
It should be noted that a third much narrower falls exists. Over the years these falls have been 
called at different times; Luna Falls, Iris Falls and is currently named Bridal Veil Falls.

Man has not been able to completely control the flow of the water over the falls, even modern 
engineers have tried. Much of the water today is fed through underground channels and pipes to 
nearby hydro electric power stations.
Do the Falls Freeze over in the Winter?
Yes and No...... We'll try to explain
The tremendous volume of water never stops flowing,  However, the falling
water and mist create ice formations along the banks of the falls and river.
This can result in mounds of ice as thick as fifty feet. If the Winter is cold for
long enough, the ice will completely stretch across the river and form what
is known as the "ice bridge".  This ice bridge can extend for several miles
down river until it reaches the area known as the lower rapids.  

Until 1912,visitors were allowed to actually walk out on the ice bridge and 
view the Falls from below. February 24th of 1888 the local newspaper
reported that at least 20,000 people watched or tobogganed on the ice.
Shanties selling liquor, photographs and curiosities abounded. On February
4th 1912 the ice bridge broke up and three tourists lives were lost.

There can also be a great deal of  "mini-icebergs" which flow down the 
Niagara River from frozen Lake Erie. The flow of ice has been reduced 
considerably by the yearly installation of the "ice-boom" on Lake Erie. The 
ice-boom is a long floating chain (2miles- 3.2 KM) of steel floats strung across 
the Niagara River from Buffalo New York to Fort Erie Ontario.
It is set in place during the month of December and  removed during the 
month of March or April. It is maintained by the New York State Power 
 Authority. The ice boom helps prevent the ice from clogging the river and most
 importantly the hydroelectric companies water intakes.
Spring Ice flowing underneath the North Grand Island Bridge
HOWEVER.... The flow of water was stopped completely over both falls 
on March 29th 1848 due to an ice jam in the upper river for several hours. This 
is the only known time to have occurred. The Falls did not actually freeze 
over, but the flow was stopped to the point where people actually walked out 
and recovered artifacts from the riverbed! 
The "Ice Bridge" underneath the Rainbow Bridge. 1997 
Interesting facts about Niagara Falls
The flow over the American Falls was stopped completely for several months 
in 1969. The idea was to determine the feasibility of removing the large 
amount of loose rock from the base of the falls to enhance it's appearance.  
In the end the final decision was that the expense would be too great.
photo credit: Lindsay News & Photo 
The word "Niagara" is derived from the Iroquois Indian word "Onguiaahra"  
meaning "the strait"
There is an international boundary between the United States and Canada.
Before the invention of film, tourists would sketch pictures of the Falls.
The flow was also halted over both falls on March 30th 1848 due to an ice jam 
in the upper river.
The movies Niagara and Superman were filmed in part at the Falls.
In the past ten years, two daredevils lost their lives trying to conquer Niagara. 
In the evenings, intense spotlights bathe the falls with different shades of color.

The first  person to go over the Falls in a barrel and survive was a  63 year old  
female schoolteacher.

High wire tightrope acts used to be performed across the river. Most notably 
was "Blondin" who once actually carried his manager across on his back, 
stopping midway to rest !

The Falls make a tremendous sound as the water goes over and lands at the 
bottom.

Twenty percent of the worlds freshwater lies in the Great Lakes, and most flows 
over Niagara Falls.
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australia wildlife park

Wildlife

drag onto travel planner

South Australia is considered to have the most accessible wildlife in Australia. It's one of the few places you can swim with wild sea-lions and dolphins, walk down eucalyptus-lined lanes spotting koalas, and view groups of kangaroos grazing the land. We're home to all sorts of wildlife - from our familiar kangaroos, koalas and wallabies to shy echidnas and tiny nocturnal bats.

Majestic whales, playful sea-lions, dainty Leafy Sea Dragons and parading penguins play on our coasts and in our seas.

Don't miss Kangaroo Island - a must see for wildlife spotters. Flinders Chase National Park encompasses stunning coastal landscapes, vast areas of wilderness and diversity of wildlife. Seal Bay Conservation Park is home to a colony of wild Australian Sea-lions one of the few places in the world where these animals are relatively tolerant of people.

Each year, from October to June, Southern Right Whales congregate in South Australian waters to breed and raise their young. They can be spotted along the coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula or at Head of Bight on the edge of the Nullarbor Plain. Baird Bay on the Eyre Peninsula offers a truly unforgettable experience - swimming with sea lions, accompanied by an accredited guide.

Our species of reptiles include Blue Tongue Lizards, Thorny Devils, Frill Neck Lizards, and goannas. Although reptiles can be found all over South Australia, one of the best places to find them is the Flinders Ranges.

Keep an eye out for the rare Yellow- Footed Rock Wallaby that can be seen at Terowie, Wilkawillina, Brachina and Bunyeroo Gorges in the Flinders and Outback.

You don't have to travel far from the city for a memorable encounter with wildlife. South Australia's wildlife experience starts right in the heart of the city with the Adelaide Zoo by the River Torrens. Adelaide Zoo's combination of contemporary enclosures, heritage buildings and sensitive landscaping are an insight into modern conservation as well as homes to native and exotic species. This and many other wildlife encounters can be found within an hour's drive from the city centre.


Wildlife in South Australia

Adelaide's Wildlife Trail
Adelaide Wildlife
Follow Adelaide's Wildlife Trail, leading you through nine outstanding wildlife experiences. You'll see everything from Australian native animals, through to exotic endangered species. Read More
Wildlife Tours
Wildlife Tours
Come on a remarkable wildlife journey in South Australia, taking a tour with one of the many knowledgable tour operators. Read More
Wildlife in National Parks
Wildlife in National Parks
You will come across all sorts of animals and birdlife in South Australia's national parks, however these are a few places where you're pretty much guaranteed to have an awesome wildlife experience. Read More

Zoos & Wildlife Parks

Zoos & Wildlife Parks
Take a closer look at some of Aust
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sukau

ACCOMMODATION IN SABAH

SUKAU


Entry and Main Building at Sukau Rainforest Lodge
Entry and Main Building at Sukau Rainforest Lodge
The rear courtyard area at Sukau Rainforest Lodge
The rear courtyard area at Sukau Rainforest Lodge












Sukau Rainforest Lodge

Sukau Rainforest Lodge is situated on the edge of the Kinabatangan River amid tropical rainforest. The lodge is situated about a 10 minute boat trip upriver of Sukau. It offers the rare luxury of perfect solitude and tranquillity with luxuriant vegetation. The lodge has been built in traditional Malaysian style, and makes use of local Borneo timbers. All the rooms have a solar powered fan, twin beds, attached bathrooms and solar hot water. The lodge has won a number of environmental and tourism awards since it was built a couple of years ago. 

What some of our clients have had to say about their stay at Sukau Rainforest Lodge

:
    Well set out, plenty of food. The electric motors are fabulous for the river cruise. Keep the size of boats are they are. The larger boats we saw on the river looked very out of place. (Clarissa Budimir, Sydney. 9th July 1998) Very enjoyable and educational. The highlight was slowly drifting down the narrow river tributary (with occasional help of electric motor) and listening to the jungle - especially the silence. Hermann fed us magnificently. (Sue & Ian Kay, Peking , China. 21st February 1999) One of the most memorable parts of our holiday. I was very thrilled to see a wild orang-utan thanks to Herman excellent spotting. Will tell all our friends about this great holiday spot! (John & Sue Robertson, Sydney, Australia. 17th October 1999) What an environmental friendly, paradise to just kick back. Thoroughly enjoyed the scenery, plants, animals, great staff and above all, the food! Keep up your good work. (Vi Stevenson, Shanghai, China. 29th December 1999) My husband, Carryl, and I recently visited the Sukau Rainforest Lodge outside of Sandakan. It was an exciting trip since the flood waters were rising daily and the river was swollen way beyond its banks. We were fortunate to see orang-utans and proboscis monkeys, a beautiful kingfisher and some gibbons. The wildlife, the setting were all beautiful and we thank you for the opportunity to share life on the river. Your staff were warm, friendly and knowledgeable with a deep and obvious commitment to what your company stands for. Our guide, George, was a wonderful fount of knowledge and information. He has a great sense of humour and took excellent care of us while we were on the tour. The food was delicious and we enjoyed talking to the cook. We felt welcomed and were treated as special guests. (Pam Fitch Hong Kong, February 2000) What a great place !! The service was excellent, happy friendly faces each day what a pleasant change from the hustle and bustle of city life. Our guide Quielyn was fantastic extremely knowledgeable and also always friendly and helpful towards us. I must admit I was monkeyed out by the time we left this beautiful place. (Eddy & Tracey van Rossum, Sydney, Australia December 31, 2000) Seeing 5 orang utans was very lucky. Fernando was a very knowledgeable guide. Great honeymoon. (Lizzie & Ray Teale, January 27, 2001) I really enjoyed the experience of the river and the chance to see it in its moods - early morning, evening and night. I enjoyed the opportunity to sit cruising downstream with the electric motor and listening to the bird song + spotting wildlife. It's great to be with people who are obviously so concerned about conservation issues. Thank you. (Vivien & Michael Chow, Australia. March 16, 2001) Had marvellous time and food. Lots of birds and 8 monkey/ape species. Staff great. Thank you. (Betty & Don Wood, Canberra, Australia. April 29, 2001)

The new Sukau Rainforest Lodge offers guests added facilities to enhance their jungle experience.
New Accommodation at Sukau Rainforest Lodge - day room
New Accommodation at Sukau Rainforest Lodge - day room
New Accommodation at Sukau Rainforest Lodge
New Accommodation at Sukau Rainforest Lodge


Dining at the Jetty
Restaurant on the Jetty


Sundeck Restaurant overlooking the Kinabatangan
Sundeck Restaurant at Sukau Rainforest Lodge












 
 
 






Please note that Sukau Rainforest Lodge underwent and extensive renovation and rebuilding programme in 2010 to upgrade all its facilities. There are no longer any of the old rooms left.
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